South Africa has dispatched special envoy Sydney Mufamadi to Mozambique in response to escalating political violence following the October elections. Mufamadi’s mission aims to engage with outgoing President Filipe Nyusi and assess the crisis that has intensified in recent weeks, with opposition protests leading to widespread unrest.
President Cyril Ramaphosa tasked Mufamadi with conveying South Africa’s solidarity and offering support to Mozambique in navigating the current turmoil. “We have received detailed insights from our Mozambican counterparts about the situation, including their efforts to address it and their expectations of South Africa’s role in promoting peace,” Mufamadi said in an interview with Radio Moçambique.
In light of the growing instability, South Africa’s National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has increased security along the South Africa-Mozambique border, aiming to prevent any criminal activities arising from the unrest. This includes efforts to combat the potential influx of opportunistic crimes in the region.
“The South African government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and maintaining regional stability. We continue to engage Mozambique at a bilateral level to address the situation and seek sustainable solutions,” NATJOINTS said in a statement. Both nations are leveraging their diplomatic ties to restore security and order, especially in areas most affected by the violence.
The political turmoil follows the October 9 general elections in Mozambique, where the Constitutional Council confirmed the victory of Daniel Chapo and the ruling Frelimo party. However, opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane has refused to accept the results, alleging widespread fraud and calling for mass protests. These protests have spiraled into violent clashes, destruction of property, and even the escape of more than 1,500 prisoners from a local facility, further straining the country’s stability.
In South Africa, political leaders are expressing growing concern about the impact of the unrest on both countries. DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp warned that the widespread violence, allegations of human rights abuses, and destruction of property — including that of South African citizens in Mozambique — are escalating fears of a breakdown of social order. “The situation in Mozambique is a significant concern for South Africa. The potential collapse of the country’s social fabric could have serious repercussions on regional stability,” Aucamp said.
Zama Ntshona, spokesperson for the African Transformation Movement (ATM), also voiced alarm, highlighting the severe toll of the violence, with reports of at least 130 deaths, over 2,000 injuries, and thousands arrested. Ntshona urged South Africa to prepare for an influx of refugees if the violence worsens, stressing the need for temporary stations along the border to assist those fleeing the unrest. The ATM also called for measures to isolate criminals who may cross into South Africa, particularly with reports of over 1,500 prisoners escaping during the chaos.
ActionSA President Herman Mashaba underscored the broader regional implications, warning that an escalation of violence in Mozambique could destabilize southern Africa. “As the region’s most developed economy, South Africa remains a primary destination for those fleeing hardship, as well as for criminals seeking to exploit the situation,” Mashaba said.
Steve Swart, MP for the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), echoed concerns about the safety of South African citizens in Mozambique, especially those with businesses or family ties in the country. “We welcome President Ramaphosa’s intervention and call for continued diplomatic efforts to broker peace,” Swart added.
Economist Dawie Roodt also expressed concern about the potential economic fallout, particularly regarding exports and foreign investment in the region. He warned that Mozambique’s economy, already vulnerable, will likely face long-term setbacks due to the ongoing unrest. “The impact on regional trade and investment could have serious consequences for South Africa, especially if the situation continues to deteriorate,” Roodt said.
Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA), reported that major cities such as Maputo, Beira, and Nampula have been the epicenter of protests, leading to business closures, transport disruptions, and widespread unrest. However, tourism areas along the coast, which are typically major draws for international visitors, have so far been less affected by the violence.